In 1979, in the town of Lexington, NC, a young and vulnerable 16-year-old boy named Charles McNeair was unjustly taken into custody by authorities. This petition seeks to shed light on the grave miscarriage of justice that occurred and demands clemency be granted for Charles McNeair by Governor Roy Cooper.

Charles' story is deeply personal to many of us as we have witnessed the effects of this injustice on Charles’ life. The passage of time has only made the burden of injustice heavier and more difficult for Charles to bear.

Charles was a skinny 16-year-old kid carrying groceries for customers at a local store when he innocently crossed paths with a 50 year-old white woman whom Charles said “I thought she was just being nice.” This woman took advantage of his innocence. This entanglement took an unimaginable turn which forever changed the course of Charles’ life. Today, we recognize this woman's actions as predatory behavior and grooming tactics. However, in the racially charged climate of 1979 Lexington, none of this mattered to the authorities at that time. All they saw was a black boy and a white woman, leading them to unfairly target and apprehend teenage Charles while the adult white predator walked free. 

Granting clemency for Charles McNeair would not only provide him with his freedom; but, it would also send a powerful message about Gov Cooper’s commitment to fairness and equality under the law.

We urge Governor Roy Cooper to review this case thoroughly and consider granting clemency based on the following reasons:

1. Lack of evidence: None was collected!! It was never proven Charles committed any crime. There is no file in this case: no mug shot, arrest record, victim statement, nothing!

2. Racial bias: It is essential to acknowledge the racial bias that influenced the lack of investigation, trial, and subsequent conviction of Charles McNeair. The racial dynamics of the time played a significant role in his unfair treatment.

3. Charles has spent over four decades behind bars, all the while demonstrating his capacity for growth. He has actively worked towards personal development during his incarceration. Most recently, he was enrolled in a successful re-entry program in his home prison when he was suddenly transferred out to another prison. 

4. Everyone involved in this case is now deceased except Charles. 

5. Charles was a juvenile when intentionally and wrongfully incarcerated and has now served 43 years. This length of incarceration is already excessive and inhumane. 

6. The current Mayor and City Council of Lexington drafted and signed a resolution of petition for Charles’ release which they sent to Gov Cooper requesting clemency. 

7. Charles has a home in Lexington where over 40 relatives wait for his release. They are committed to helping Charles upon his release. 

By granting clemency to Charles McNeair, Governor Roy Cooper can rectify a grave injustice from our past while also reaffirming our commitment to justice, fairness, and equality for all North Carolinians.

We call upon Governor Roy Cooper to review this case with utmost care and compassion. Granting clemency would not only provide an opportunity for Charles to rebuild his life but also serve as a crucial step towards healing historical wounds within our justice system.

Let us come together as concerned citizens who demand that justice be served by granting clemency for Charles McNeair. Together, we can right this historical wrong and create a more just society for all.

#JusticeForCharlesMcNeair #ClemencyForCharlesMcNeair